Today, more than a decade later, the perception of Islam in America continues to be overshadowed by the events of 9/11, as apparent in right-wing rhetoric, the anti-Shariah campaign, and the various obstacles different mosques face.

Many forget that the collective fabric of American lives was jolted that day – which include Muslims who call the United States their home. In fact, Muslims were among those who lost their lives that day, whether as victims or as first responders.

After all these years, we owe it to ourselves to explore what Islam truly says about terrorism, historical examples of coexistence in Muslim lands, how the Muslim American community was affected by 9/11, and ways in which we can positively move forward as a united nation.